It's May and that means temperatures are heating up; our friend Mr. Sun comes out to play and so do we. There are picnics, BBQs, camping, gardening, trips to the park, water fun and much more to do outside. The fresh air and sunshine feels great on our skin but it is very important to also remember to protect our skin. Yeah, yeah, You know that sun causes wrinkles, burns, peeling and other damage to our precious skin -- the sun's warm golden rays can even cause cancer. Skin cancer is one of the most common but it is also one of the most preventable and easiest to detect.

 

 

Put a cover on it! While you may put sunscreen on your skin, your scalp can still be vulnerable.
Hats are a great way to protect your head, keep the sun off your face and help prevent skin cancer.

May is designated as Melanoma/Skin Cancer Awareness Detection and Prevention Month. During the month of May many people are dedicated to helping others by raising awareness and letting people know more about prevention and detection. This is a fantastic time to educate yourself and your family about what you can do to keep your skin safe and help prevent skin cancer. You should also take this opportunity to learn how to do monthly skin checks. Early detection is the key so knowing your skin and being aware of anything that looks suspicious is very important. According to the American Academy of Dermatology there are a few things you need to be on the look out for. When examining your skin look for moles or spots that exhibit:

 

1. Asymmetry ~ One half is unlike the other

 

2. Boarders ~ An irregular, scalloped or poorly defined border.

 

3. Color ~ Is varied from one area to another; has shades of tan, brown, or black; or is sometimes white, red or blue.

 

4. Diameter ~ Melanomas usually are greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, but they can be smaller.

 

5. Evolving ~ A mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape or color.

 

To view photos, download a mole map and for step-by-step instructions on how to do a skin check visit http://www.melanomamonday.org/

 

 

 

There are some simple and important things you can do to help prevent getting skin cancer in the first place.

 

1. Layer up!

No, you don't have to wear sweaters, gloves and scarves -- you'd get heat stroke. What you do need to do is to layer your skin with sunscreen. Be sure to use a sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Waterproof sunscreen, SPF of 30 or higher is recommended -- and you'll want to reapply at least every two hours. If you are using a spray sunscreen, you'll want to reapply every hour.

 

2. Keep Shaded

Be sure to wear hats, shirts, and sunglasses when you are out in the sun -- for added protection. If you are headed for the beach or going to be somewhere where it might be difficult to find shade, bring an umbrella. If you are heading out for a walk -- take an umbrella to keep you shaded -- and as an added bonus it keeps you cooler to.

 

3. Watch the Clock

Avoid the sun during the hours of 10am and 4pm. If you want to be out that's completely understandable but you need to follow the rules above,  seek shade, cover up, slather on the sunscreen.

 

4. Read Your Prescription Labels

There are many prescriptions that carry a warning about the effects of sunlight while on the medication. Be sure to read labels every time and make sure to head the warnings if it says to avoid direct sunlight. Even if you don't usually burn while you are out in the sun these medications can make you ultra sensitive -- so keep yourself protected.

 

5. Avoid the Tanning Bed

If you want to protect yourself and prevent skin cancer your MUST avoid tanning beds. There are so many other ways that you can get a healthy glow without putting yourself at risk. There are lotions, self tanners and you can even go in a get a professional spray tan which looks just as natural as anything you would get out in the sun. It's a great alternative!

 

 

If you want to help others prevent skin cancer, spread the word and raise people's awareness. Being a good example can also show your friends and family ways that they can protect themselves.

 

Let's work together to bring awareness and not only tell people how to prevent and detect skin cancer -- let's show them that we care enough about our skin and our health to do the same.

 

There are many free skin cancer screenings all over the country and they are often held in May. Call your local hospitals or dermatologists to try to find out when the one in your area will be held.

 

 

 

You may have noticed that pink is everywhere! Pink ribbons, pink shoes, socks, or chin guards on football players, pink shirts, pink bracelets, pink cupcakes, and pink packaging on hundreds - if not thousands - of products you purchase every day. When you see pink you can be sure that money is being raised, lives are being changed and we are making great strides in the fight against breast cancer. 

 

Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, it is the most popular time year to raise money that will help to provide mammograms for women who cannot afford it, fund research that will improve cancer treatments, one day wipeout the disease forever and to improve the lives of cancer patients everywhere. Almost everyone has been touched by cancer in some way and if you have a loved one or friend fighting the disease you may feel very helpless but still feel very determined to find away to help. Fundraising doesn't have to stop in October - it can keep going year round!

So what can you do to raise money for the cause? There are so many ways and here at Charming Chick we hope to give you ideas and inspire you to make a difference!

 

Fundraising ideas:

1. Clear the clutter and host a garage sale. Donate all proceeds.

2. Get crafting. Turn your hobby into money for your favorite breast cancer organization. Do you like to take photographs, quilt, knit, sew, paint, or something else? You can sell these items at crafts fairs, bazaars or on Esty.

3. Are people always asking for your recipes? Make a cookbook and sell it and donate the proceeds.

4. Just ask! Ask for a donation in any amount for your favorite breast cancer foundation. You can even write a letter to friends and family about why it is so important for you to help raise money for breast cancer.

5. Participate in Komen for the Cure, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, Avon Walk for Breast Cancer or any other fundraiser dedicated to raising awareness and funds in the fight against breast cancer.

6. Host a bake sale. Yummmm!

7. If your boss will let you, you can make a "Casual Friday." Folks interested in dressing down on this day can make a donation of $5 or more each time they want to participate. then that money can go to the cause.

8. Party with a Purpose. Host a dinner or get together that aims to raise money for breast cancer. You can charge per plate or table and you may be able to get food, entertainment, a venue and decorations donated.

9. Have an auction or raffle. Depending on the laws for your state you can put on a silent auction or raffle off items with proceeds going to benefit breast cancer research.

10. Have a Car Wash

11. Chili Cook-off are fun and a great way to raise money!

12. Donate your birthday for a cure. Let friends and family know that in lieu of gifts this year you would like them to donate to your favorite breast cancer organization.

13. Many restaurants will donate a portion of their days proceeds to raise money for certain organizations. Approach several. It never hurts to ask around.

14. Sell flowers, fruits or veggies out of your own garden.

15. Have a friend that does home parties like Tupperware, Partylite, Pampered Chef, etc.? Offer to donate your hostess rewards and/or see if they will donate a portion of their sales to the cause.

There are really so many ways you can raise money to help fight breast cancer. Get creative. Be Passionate. You will succeed!

approximately 1.3 million people are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and despite our best efforts -- there is still no cure. Often times, when a loved is diagnosed with breast cancer family and friends feel very helpless but they will also do whatever they can to be of assistance and show their support. One way that folks honor survivors, remember those who have lost their battle to cancer, raise funds to help those affected by the disease and work toward a cure -- is by participating events designed to do one or all of those things. Here are just a few of the events we have going on here in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

 

  

Komen Dallas Race for the Cure -- North Park Center ~ October 15, 2011

"The Komen Dallas Race for the Cure® is an annual 1K and 5K fundraising walk/run event held at NorthPark Center. It is a co-ed race and great fun for the entire family.  The Race is in its 29th year and is part of a national 5K series sponsored by Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The goal of the event is to raise funds, heighten awareness and educate people about breast health as well as to recognize and celebrate breast cancer survivorship.  The Race is the largest fundraising event for local breast cancer screening, treatment, education and research in Dallas County.  Last year our affiliate granted $1,912,000 into the immediate Dallas community for these vital services.  $679,829 was directed to cutting edge research at the national level." For more information visit www.komen-dallas.org 

Pink Pride Brides -- Bridal Fashion for a Cause ~ October 18, 2011

"Pink Pride Brides – Bridal Fashion for a Cause is a bridal fashion show which supports the fight against breast cancer. Brought to you by Hitched Events, and featuring Fall 2011 and Spring 2012 wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses and accessories from Mockingbird Bridal Boutique, Pink Pride Brides is your chance to get a glimpse of the latest wedding fashions while enjoying an assortment of hors d’oeuvres and beer and wine. From sleek sophistication to delicate lace, the fashion show will have something for everyone! There will be a drawing for prizes from local wedding vendors, plus the first 100 brides to register will receive a goodie bag.

The event fee is $10 (when registered in advance), and all proceeds benefit The Bridge Breast Network, a local not-for-profit organization that links uninsured and under insured women in North Texas with diagnostic and treatment services for breast cancer." (information via www.pinkpridebrides.org)

  

 

 

 

 

 

When detected early enough, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer is 98%. Advances in detection and treatments have made this possible. This is why it is so important that women do monthly breast self-examinations (BSE) starting at age 20.  BSEs are a self-inspection of one's breasts using hands to feel for lumps or hardened tissue -- and eyes to see if there appear to be any visual changes. Mammograms are the most effective tool in catching breast cancer early but it is important for women to be familiar with what is normal for them and their breasts so they can note any changes. Also according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, if you do find a lump there is no need to panic because 8-10 lumps found are not cancerous -- but you definitely want to get it check out by your doctor.

 According to BreastCancer.org there are 5 steps to performing a BSE:

Step 1: Begin by looking at your breasts in the mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips.

Here's what you should look for:

• Breasts that are their usual size, shape, and color
• Breasts that are evenly shaped without visible distortion or swelling

If you see any of the following changes, bring them to your doctor's attention:

• Dimpling, puckering, or bulging of the skin
• A nipple that has changed position or an inverted nipple (pushed inward instead of sticking out)
• Redness, soreness, rash, or swelling

  

 

 

Step 2: Now, raise your arms and look for the same changes.

Step 3: While you're at the mirror, look for any signs of fluid coming out of one or both nipples (this could be a watery, milky, or yellow fluid or blood).

 

 

 

Step 4: Next, feel your breasts while lying down, using your right hand to feel your left breast and then your left hand to feel your right breast. Use a firm, smooth touch with the first few finger pads of your hand, keeping the fingers flat and together. Use a circular motion, about the size of a quarter.

Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side — from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.

Follow a pattern to be sure that you cover the whole breast. You can begin at the nipple, moving in larger and larger circles until you reach the outer edge of the breast. You can also move your fingers up and down vertically, in rows, as if you were mowing a lawn. This up-and-down approach seems to work best for most women. Be sure to feel all the tissue from the front to the back of your breasts: for the skin and tissue just beneath, use light pressure; use medium pressure for tissue in the middle of your breasts; use firm pressure for the deep tissue in the back. When you've reached the deep tissue, you should be able to feel down to your ribcage.

 

 

Step 5: Finally, feel your breasts while you are standing or sitting. Many women find that the easiest way to feel their breasts is when their skin is wet and slippery, so they like to do this step in the shower. Cover your entire breast, using the same hand movements described in Step 4.

 

 

 

If you have any other questions or still aren't exactly sure how you should do a breast self-exam talk to your doctor.

  

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month it is important to spread the word about early detection, prevention and treatments. It is also a great time to donate to any causes dedicated to finding a cure for this disease.

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.  This is a great time to support ovarian cancer organizations and to help raise awareness about this disease. Teal is the color used to represent and bring awareness to ovarian cancer.  The signs aren't always obvious - symptoms are sometimes described as the ovarian cancer whisper, which is why it is important for women to know their bodies. If something is causing concern, be sure speak with your doctor. There are very few warning signs, but talking to your doctor if you feel like something isn't right can be the best defense against the disease.  Actually, when detected early enough the 5 year survival rate is 93%.

 

The main symptoms of ovarian cancer are:

* bloating or internal gas

 * pelvic, abdominal pain or lower back pain

* nausea, lack of appetite or feeling full quickly

* urinary frequency or urgency

* unexplained changes in bowel habits

* unexplained weight loss or gain

* decreased lack of energy that is ongoing

 

If you have a combination of these symptoms and they last for 2-3 weeks be sure you consult your doctor.

 

 

While the exact cause of ovarian cancer isn't known, there are some factors which can put certain people at a greater risk of developing the disease than others.

* Age -- more specifically women over 45 years old

* Genetics -- if you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer you are at risk of developing ovarian cancer. If you have had breast cancer your risk for ovarian cancer also increases.

* BRCA1 or BRCA 2 -- an inherited gene mutation that puts women at a much higher risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer.

* Infertility or No pregnancies

 

It is important to remember that all women are at risk and that why it is so important to bring awareness and donate to cancer research organizations so they will have the funds they need to learn more about early detection, prevention ans treatment. While yearly gynecological exams do not always test for ovarian cancer, getting a routine pelvic and rectal examination is a good first step. Also, ask your doctor about the CA125 blood test, which tests the level of a substance in the blood that increases when a cancerous tumor is present. While the test can be a good tool for those at high risk of developing the disease, it isn't recommended for women of normal or ordinary risk. This is because the test can miss over 50% of cancers and can be raised by benign conditions.

Since September is ovarian cancer awareness month, be sure to talk to the women in you life to ensure they know about the risks and symptoms associated with the disease. In addition, if you are concerned that you maybe be at risk for developing ovarian cancer have a talk with your doctor and ALL women should be getting regular check-ups.

 

Your mother. Your grandmother. Your sister. Your wife. Your aunt. Your daughter. Your friend. Just about anyone who hears the words breast cancer - is able to picture the face of someone they know and love - who has been diagnosed with this disease. With today's advances in early detention, prevention, and treatments -- breast cancer doesn't necessarily have to mean the end. It is however, the beginning of a long and hard-fought journey; which is why doctors, the American Cancer Society, The National Breast Cancer Foundation and countless others, encourage early detection in the prevention of breast cancer.

 

 

 

 

Early detection has saved countless lives. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation:

 

 

*1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.

*Over 30% of women are diagnosed after breast cancer has spread beyond the localized stage.

*When breast cancer is detected early (localized stage), the 5-year survival rate is 98%.





98% survival rate!!! That is fantastic an extremely good reason to make sure you (and all the other lovely ladies in your life) have an early detection plan in place. Plain and simple -- early detection saves lives!









Before you put together your early detection plan, it is important that you speak with you doctor, and consider your risk factors. Some factors include your gender, age, race, and genetics. Your life style can also increase or decrease your risks. Eating healthy, staying away from cigarettes, drinking only in moderation, and getting regular exercise, are helpful in preventing breast cancer -- and other cancers as well.



Early detection usually starts for women in their 20's. Being aware of visual changes in your breasts such as pitting, scaling, or the nipples being red or swollen are all good reasons to schedule an appointment with your doctor. If you ever see or feel anything that doesn't seem right, never feel silly about calling to get it checked out. It is always better to error on the side of caution. In addition to noticing visual changes, be sure that you are performing monthly breast self-exams. If you aren't sure how to do them correctly, just ask your doctor or you can visit the American Cancer Society and read their detailed guide on self-exams.





For women 40 years or older, should have a mammogram every 1-2 years. If you have high risk factors, or any other breast health issues, you might want to start your mammograms starting at age 35 or sooner. Speak with your health care professional to see if this is something that is right for you.



While there are certainly no guarantees, the facts are -- early detection has saved thousands. If you want to help bring awareness and raise money to help fight cancer, there are a number of organizations that do this. Three of the largest - and most popular are the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, The American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breat Cancer, and The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States -- and it outnumbers all other cancers combined! BUT the ACS does say that there is some good news -- skin cancer is also the most preventable form of cancer.  As temperatures start to rise - it is very important that we all remember to take the proper steps to keep our skin - and ourselves - safe.

 

Something you may not know, is that the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention  has designated the Friday before Memorial Day; "Don't Fry Day." It is a day that is designated to raise awareness about sun safety. So, in honor of Don't Fry Day and Skin Cancer Awareness month, we will provide you with some information on how you can protect yourself, and your family.

So what steps should you take to prevent skin cancer?

  

* Use a sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Waterproof  sunscreen, SPF of 30 or higher is recommended -- and you'll want to reapply at least every two hours. If you are using a spray sunscreen, you'll want to reapply every hour.

*Avoid the sun during the hours of 10am and 4pm.  Seek shade, cover up, slather on the sunscreen if you want to spend time outdoors.

*Wear hats, shirts, and sunglasses when you are out in the sun -- for added protection.

*Avoid tanning beds or booths of any kind! There are many lotion - and spray tan - options available that can give you a nice golden glow. MUCH safer.

*Keep newborns out of the sun! Only babies 6 months or older should wear sunscreen.

*Examine your skin head to toe every month. If you notice something that doesn't look right or if a mole has changed shape, size, or color -- make an appointment with your doctor, so they can check it out.

Don't worry, you can still have fun in the sun -- you just need to make sure to take the proper precautions to prevent damaging your skin.

B. C. Awareness Crystal Ribbon Pin   

     

Cancer has touched the lives of just about everyone, in one way or another. Most of us have had a family member, friend, or perhaps even ourselves -- diagnosed with cancer. In recent years, great strides have been made in cancer research, knowledge about prevention, and treatments -- but despite all that, new cases of cancer are increasing each year.    

     

Sterling Silver Survivor Ribbon Necklace    

The good news is, some cancers can be prevented. Those cancers which are caused by tobacco and heavy alcohol use, could be completely prevented; according to the American Cancer Society's Facts and Figures 2010. Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and staying away from things known to cause cancer can help decrease your chances of developing the disease, as well. Also, make sure to participate in the cancer screenings recommended by your doctor. Early detection of cancer, is really the key to surviving the disease. Ask your doctor which screening are appropriate for you age and family history.   

    

Swarovski Crystal Ovarian Cancer Awareness Charm
   

According to ACS, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States -- Heart Disease is #1.  The most common types of cancers - in both men and women - are skin cancer and lung cancer. This is why it is so important to take preventative measures like; applying (and continuing to re-apply) a sunscreen of SPF20 or higher before going out in the sun, staying away from indoor tanning beds, quitting smoking, avoiding second-hand smoke, etc.